The creation of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) was announced by the Chinese president at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference 2026 in Shanghai. Twenty-nine countries signed an agreement to establish the body, which international participants praised as a step toward strengthened global cooperation and governance of artificial intelligence. China also pledged to provide 5,000 AI training places to developing countries over the next five years.
A new body for global AI cooperation
The WAICO announcement came during an event themed “AI Partnership for a Brighter Future,” which brought together policymakers, researchers and industry stakeholders. The new organization is being positioned as a platform to promote international collaboration and coordinate joint efforts on AI governance. At the conference, 29 countries formalized their initial commitment by signing an agreement in Shanghai.
Responses from international stakeholders
Several international speakers welcomed the initiative while stressing the need to incorporate sectoral and regional perspectives. Golestan (Sally) Radwan, Chief Digital Officer at the United Nations Environment Programme, emphasized the importance of embedding environmental and sustainability considerations into any AI cooperation and offered her agency’s expertise on those issues. Danil Kerimi, vice‑president of the WIPO Independent Advisory Oversight Committee, praised the announcement’s blend of vision and pragmatism but cautioned that the quantified commitments—particularly on training—will need to be delivered in practice.
Training and research announced in Shanghai
At a forum hosted by a local university, researchers presented work including a Global AI Governance Index that assesses AI governance from the perspective of Global South countries. The university also announced a hosting program for researchers from the Global South. Separately, Beijing clarified its training commitment: 5,000 seminar and training opportunities in AI will be offered to developing countries over the next five years to support capacity building.
Global governance at the center of discussions
More than 140 forums took place over the conference’s four days, many focused on global AI governance. Discussions highlighted the need for an inclusive framework that brings together public authorities, international organizations and academic communities to balance innovation, safety and socio‑environmental concerns.
Closing remarks
Conference participants largely welcomed the creation of WAICO, while underscoring that its success will depend on the practical implementation of the commitments made—especially regarding training and the inclusion of Global South countries.
